The PACK PATROL E2 30 KIT SL: an electronic airbag backpack designed for freeskiing and backcountry touring

The SCOTT PACK PATROL E2 30 KIT SL airbag backpack is designed for freeskiers and ski tourers seeking robust avalanche safety gear without compromising on lightweight performance. Unlike cartridge-based backpacks, it features the Alpride E2 electronic system, whose supercapacitor technology offers proven reliability in cold temperatures. With its 30-liter storage capacity, it’s ideal for demanding day trips while incorporating all the carrying features expected in challenging terrain. This pack is a vital component of a comprehensive avalanche safety system—to be used with an avalanche transceiver, a shovel, and a probe—and should under no circumstances be relied upon as a guarantee of survival on its own.

Electronic airbag system: supercapacitor, deployment, and travel compatibility

At the heart of the PACK PATROL E2 30 KIT SL is the fully electronic Alpride E2 system. Its unique feature is its supercapacitor technology, which remains effective at low temperatures—where a lithium-ion battery would lose efficiency. This approach also eliminates the need for compressed gas cartridges, which greatly simplifies travel by plane or on expeditions, without the restrictions associated with transporting pressurized gas. Inflation is provided by a turbo radial fan, ensuring rapid balloon inflation in the event of deployment. A mechanical trigger is also built in, along with a deflation system designed to prevent electronic malfunctions. Power can be supplied by two AA batteries or via a USB-C port, depending on field conditions. An LCD display shows the charge level at all times, and the system weighs 1,140 g, for a total weight of 2,720 g when the bag is equipped. The product is certified as PPE Category II in accordance with standard EN 16716:2017 and approved by TÜV. It is important to note that an airbag pack increases the chances of remaining on the surface during an avalanche, though it does not offer any guarantee.

Organization, Access to Safety Gear, and Carrying Equipment

To meet the demands of the terrain, the PACK PATROL E2 30 KIT SL features an organizational layout designed for quick access to gear. Here are the key organizational features:

• A dedicated compartment for avalanche safety gear, with built-in organizational pockets for quick access to the shovel and probe.
• A pocket for the avalanche trigger located in the shoulder straps, for immediate access without removing the pack.
• A retractable diagonal carrying system for skis, complemented by an A-frame system compatible with both skis and snowboards.
• Retractable attachments for a helmet, ice axe, and poles, to keep your hands free in mixed terrain.
• A dedicated goggle compartment and a zippered pocket on the hip belt for everyday accessories.

The interior pocket for valuables and the internal mesh pocket round out the organization of the main compartment.

Carrying comfort and ergonomics in a short fit

The short back length (SL) version of the PACK PATROL E2 30 KIT SL is designed for body types for which a standard back length would be too long, ensuring better positioning of the hip belt on the hips. This belt is adjustable and features a quick-release buckle, a useful feature in an emergency. The adjustable chest strap includes an emergency whistle. The retractable safety leg loop plays an important role in the event of being buried: it keeps the pack in place and prevents it from sliding up the body. The adjustable shoulder straps and shoulder weight distribution system help balance the load on long climbs, while the compression straps allow you to adjust the volume based on your load.

Materials and Durability

The pack is constructed from CORDURA® fabric, renowned for its abrasion resistance and suited to the rugged terrain encountered in freeriding or ski touring. The shell is made of polyamide with a polyurethane coating, and the lining is polyester. An emergency signal print is integrated into the pack—a useful feature in case of a visual search in avalanche-prone areas.

With its lightweight design, cartridge-free electronic system, and organization geared toward quick access to avalanche safety gear, the Airbag PACK PATROL E2 30 KIT SL backpack is a logical choice for freeskiers and ski tourers looking to incorporate a high-performance airbag into their gear, in a version designed for shorter backs.